mLOCK Device and Associated Methods

ABSTRACT

A security device includes a processor defined to control operation of the security device. The security device also includes a radio defined in electrical communication with the processor. The security device also includes a location determination device defined in electrical communication with the processor. The processor, radio, and location determination device are defined to operate collaboratively to provide a wireless tracking and communication system. The security device also includes a shackle and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is defined in electrical communication with the processor. The processor is defined to operate the locking mechanism to control locking and unlocking of the shackle based on information obtained through the wireless tracking and communication system.

CLAIM OF PRIORITY

This application is a continuation application under 35 U.S.C. 120 ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/775,444, filed on May 6, 2010,entitled “mLOCK Device and Associated Methods,” which claims priorityunder 35 U.S.C. 119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.61/176,862, filed May 8, 2009, entitled “mLOCK Device and AssociatedMethods.” The disclosures of the above-identified patent applicationsare incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

In modern global commerce, it is becoming more important than ever tohave an ability to track and monitor assets and their security as theymove about the world. Additionally, government and/or commercialinstitutions may have an interest in knowing the current location of aparticular asset, a security status of a particular asset, and in havingan accurate and reliable historical record of a particular asset'stravels and corresponding security status during those travels. Amaritime transport container represents one of many examples of an assetto be tracked and monitored as it travels around the world. Informationabout a particular asset, such as its current location, where it hastraveled, how long it spent in particular locations along its route, andwhat conditions it was exposed to along its route, can be very importantinformation to both commercial and governmental entities. To this end, adevice is needed to track and monitor an asset anywhere in the world, tocollect and convey information relevant to the asset's experience duringits travels, and to remotely monitor and control the asset's security.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a locking device is disclosed. The locking deviceincludes a processor defined to control operation of the locking device.The locking device also includes a radio defined in electricalcommunication with the processor. The locking device also includes alocation determination device defined in electrical communication withthe processor. A combination of the processor, the radio, and thelocation determination device forms a wireless tracking andcommunication system. The locking device further includes a shackle anda locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is defined in electricalcommunication with the processor. The processor is defined to operatethe locking mechanism to control locking and unlocking of the shacklebased on information obtained through the wireless tracking andcommunication system.

In another embodiment, a locking device is disclosed. The locking deviceincludes a shell and a shackle disposed within a channel inside theshell. The shackle is defined to insert into an opening in the shell toclose a shackle loop. The shackle is defined to release from the openingin the shell to open the shackle loop. The locking device also includesa latch plate disposed inside the shell and defined to engage theshackle to lock the shackle, when the shackle is inserted into the shellto close the shackle loop. The locking device also includes a push platedisposed inside the shell. The push plate is defined to be moved withinthe shell by an applied external force. The locking device also includesa motor mechanically fixed to the push plate. The locking device alsoincludes a cam mechanically connected to be moved by the motor to engagewith the latch plate. Movement of the push plate by the applied externalforce, with the motor operated to engage the cam with the latch plate,causes the latch plate to move to disengage from the shackle, therebyfreeing the shackle to release from the shell to open the shackle loop.The locking device further includes a processor defined to monitor astate of the locking device and autonomously control the motor to movethe cam based on the monitored state of the locking device.

In another embodiment, a method is disclosed for autonomous operation ofa locking device based on a status of the locking device. The methodincludes an operation for operating a computing system onboard thelocking device to automatically determine a real-time status of thelocking device. The method also includes operating the computing systemto automatically control a locking mechanism of the locking device toeither lock or unlock the locking device based on the automaticallydetermined real-time status of the locking device.

In another embodiment, a method is disclosed for operating a lockingdevice. In the method, the locking device is maintained in a minimumpower consumption state while waiting for a wakeup signal to be issuedby a processor of the locking device. An event is detected that requiresthe locking device to operate at a normal power level. In response, theprocessor is operated to issue the wakeup signal to transition thelocking device from the minimum power consumption state to the normalpower level. A command is received over a wireless communication systemof the locking device. The processor is then operated to execute thereceived command. Following execution of the received command, thelocking device transitions from the normal power level back to theminimum power consumption state.

Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become more apparentfrom the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings, illustrating by way of example the presentinvention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an illustration showing an mLOCK device architecture, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an illustration showing a schematic of the mLOCK of FIG. 1, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is an illustration showing a flowchart of a method for operatinga radiofrequency tracking and communication device, i.e., mLOCK, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4A shows the physical components of the mLOCK, in accordance withone embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4B shows a closer expanded view of the front shell, rear shell,interlocking plate, and push plate, in accordance with one embodiment ofthe present invention;

FIG. 4C shows an expanded view of the shackle and locking mechanismcomponent of reference, in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention; and

FIG. 5 shows a flowchart of a method for autonomous operation of alocking device based on a status of the locking device, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth inorder to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. Itwill be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the presentinvention may be practiced without some or all of these specificdetails. In other instances, well known process operations have not beendescribed in detail in order not to unnecessarily obscure the presentinvention.

FIG. 1 is an illustration showing an mLOCK 100 device architecture, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The mLOCK 100includes a radiofrequency (RF) tracking and communication system and asecurity lock mechanism. The mLOCK 100 includes a processor 103 definedon a chip 101. The mLOCK 100 also includes a radio 105 defined on thechip 101. The radio 105 operates at an international frequency and isdefined to efficiently manage power consumption. In one embodiment, theradio 105 is defined as an Institute of Electrical and ElectronicsEngineers (TREE) 802.15.4 compliant radio 105. The radio 105 isconnected to electrically communicate with the processor 103. It shouldbe appreciated that implementation of the IEEE 802.15.4 compliant radio105 provides for international operation and secure communications, aswell as efficient power management.

The mLOCK 100 further includes a location determination device (LDD) 111defined to electrically communicate with the processor 103 of the chip101. In one embodiment, the LDD 111 is defined as a Global PositioningSystem (GPS) receiver device. Additionally, the mLOCK 100 includes apower source 143 defined to supply electrical power to the processor103, the radio 105, the LDD 111, and other powered mLOCK 100 componentsas described below with regard to FIG. 2. In various embodiments, thepower source 143 is rechargeable, and may be supported in atrickle-charging manner by solar energy. The mLOCK 100 implements apower management system defined to enable long-term mLOCK 100 deploymentwith minimal maintenance.

The mLOCK 100 is an electronic lock that secures an asset, such as cargowithin a shipping container, by controlling the ability to operate alocking mechanism of the mLOCK 100 based on proximity to securenetworks, geographic locations, or via user commands through a radiolink. The locking mechanism of the mLOCK 100 is secured through amechanical mechanism that inhibits opening a shackle of the mLOCK 100unless an electro-mechanical lock actuator 146 enables such operation ofthe mLOCK 100.

The lock actuator 146 utilizes a motor that is controlled through poweramplified electronics via the processor 103. The lock actuator 146functions to provide power and signal conversion, based on low powersignals generated by the processor 103, to generate enough power so asto appropriately control operation of a lock motor. The lock motor isdefined to provide mechanical locking and unlocking of the mLOCK 100shackle. In one embodiment, the lock motor is a DC motor. Also, in oneembodiment, a spring is disposed to link the lock motor output shaft toa cam mechanism that enables/disables operation of the mLOCK 100, i.e.,enables/disables operation of the mLOCK 100 shackle. In one embodiment,the lock actuator 146 is defined as an H-Bridge amplifier designed forlow voltage DC motors.

The mLOCK 100 also includes one or more lock sensors 148 to determinethe lock actuator 146 state (locked or unlocked) and the mLOCK 100shackle state. In one embodiment, the lock sensor 148 is a limit switchthat conveys data indicating a discrete state of the lock actuator 146,i.e., “locked” or “unlocked.” The processor 103 is defined to use thelock sensor 148 signal data to determine when the lock actuator 146 isin the correct state during lock actuation, thereby providing feedbackto the processor 103 to enable stop/start control of the lock motor bythe lock actuator 146. If the lock sensor 148 indicates that the lockmechanism is in the correct commanded state, the processor 103 will nottake any control actions. The lock sensors 148 can include a shacklesensor (or cable sensor). The shackle sensor indicates whether theshackle is actually opened or closed. Therefore, the shackle sensor isthe indicator that the locking mechanism of the mLOCK 100 has actuallybeen opened or closed, thereby indicating the security state of an assetto which the mLOCK 100 is attached.

The mLOCK 100 also includes a user interface display 144 through whichvisual information can be conveyed to a user of the mLOCK 100 to enableunderstanding of a current state of the mLOCK 100. In one embodiment,the user interface display 144 is defined as a two line by eightcharacter liquid crystal display. However, it should be understood thatin other embodiments the user interface display 144 can be defined asessentially any type and size of visual display suitable for use inelectronic components to visually display textual information, so longas the user interface display 144 fits within the form factor of themLOCK 100. In one embodiment, the mLOCK 100 includes at least one useractivatable button connected to enable selection of different screens tobe rendered on the user interface display 144. It should be understoodthat the user interface display 144 provides a user interface to theprocessor 103. In one embodiment, the different screens available forrendering in the user interface display 144 convey informationincluding, but not limited to:

a) the mLOCK 100 identification Number,

b) the mLOCK 100 state (locked or unlocked),

c) the mLOCK 100 location and time (GPS location),

d) modem status, if modem is included in mLOCK 100, and

e) network status, if the mLOCK 100 is currently in a trusted networkarea.

In one embodiment, the mLOCK 100 is defined as a self-contained batteryoperated device capable of being attached to an asset, such as ashipping container, to provide secure tracking and communicationsassociated with movement and status of the asset, and to provide accesssecurity for the asset. In certain embodiments, the mLOCK 100 may alsobe configured to provide/perform security applications associated withthe asset. Through communication with local and global communicationnetworks, the mLOCK 100 is capable of communicating data associated withits assigned asset and its security state while the asset is in transit,onboard a conveyance means (e.g., ship, truck, train), and in terminal.

As will be appreciated from the following description, the mLOCK 100provides complete autonomous location determination and logging of assetposition (latitude and longitude) anywhere in the world. The mLOCK 100electronics provide an ability to store data associated with locationwaypoints, security events, and status in a non-volatile memory onboardthe mLOCK 100. The mLOCK 100 is also defined to support segregation andprioritization of data storage in the non-volatile memory. Communicationof commercial and/or security content associated with mLOCK 100operation, including data generated by external devices interfaced tothe mLOCK 100, can be virtually and/or physically segregated in thenon-volatile memory.

Moreover, in one embodiment, a wireless communication system of themLOCK 100 is defined to detect and negotiate network access with networkgateways at long-range. The mLOCK 100 processor 103 is defined toperform all necessary functions to securely authenticate a serial numberof the mLOCK 100, provide encrypted bi-directional communication betweenthe mLOCK 100 and a reader device within a wireless network, andmaintain network connectivity when in range of a network gateway.

In one embodiment, the various components of the mLOCK 100 are disposedon a printed circuit board, with required electrical connections betweenthe various components made through conductive traces defined within theprinted circuit board. In one exemplary embodiment, the printed circuitboard of the mLOCK 100 is a low cost, rigid, four layer, 0.062″ FR-4dielectric fiberglass substrate. However, it should be understood thatin other embodiments, other types of printed circuit boards orassemblies of similar function may be utilized as a platform for supportand interconnection of the various mLOCK 100 components. In oneparticular embodiment, the chip 101 is defined as a model CC2430-64 chipmanufactured by Texas Instruments, and the LDD 111 is implemented as amodel GSC3f/LP single chip ASIC manufactured by SiRF.

FIG. 2 is an illustration showing a schematic of the mLOCK 100 of FIG.1, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Invarious exemplary embodiments, the chip 101 that includes both theprocessor 103 and the radio 105 can be implemented as either of thefollowing chips, among others:

a model CC2430 chip manufactured by Texas Instruments,

a model CC2431 chip manufactured by Texas Instruments,

a model CC2420 chip manufactured by Texas Instruments,

a model MC13211 chip manufactured by Freescale,

a model MC13212 chip manufactured by Freescale, or

a model MC 13213 chip manufactured by Freescale.

In each of the above-identified chip 101 embodiments, the radio 105 isdefined as an IEEE 802.15.4 compliant radio that operates at a frequencyof 2.4 GHz (gigaHertz). It should be understood, that the type of chip101 may vary in other embodiments, so long as the radio 105 is definedto operate at an international frequency and provide power managementcapabilities adequate to satisfy mLOCK 100 operation and deploymentrequirements. Additionally, the type of chip 101 may vary in otherembodiments, so long as the processor 103 is capable of servicing therequirements of the mLOCK 100 when necessary, and enables communicationvia the radio 105 implemented onboard the chip 101. Also, the chip 101includes a memory 104, such as a random access memory (RAM), that isread and write accessible by the processor 103 for storage of dataassociated with mLOCK 100 operation.

The mLOCK 100 also includes a power amplifier 107 and a low noiseamplifier (LNA) 137 to improve the communication range of the radio 105.The radio 105 is connected to receive and transmit RF signals through areceive/transmit (RX/TX) switch 139, as indicated by arrow 171. Atransmit path for the radio 105 extends from the radio 105 to the switch139, as indicated by arrow 171, then from the switch 139 to the poweramplifier 107, as indicated by arrow 179, then from the power amplifier107 to another RX/TX switch 141, as indicated by arrow 183, then fromthe RX/TX switch 141 to a radio antenna 109, as indicated by arrow 185.

A receive path for the radio 105 extends from the radio antenna 109 tothe RX/TX switch 141, as indicated by arrow 185, then from the RX/TXswitch 141 to the LNA 137, as indicated by arrow 181, then from the LNA137 to the RX/TX switch 139, as indicated by arrow 177, then from theRX/TX switch 139 to the radio 105, as indicated by arrow 171. The RX/TXswitches 139 and 141 are defined to operate cooperatively such that thetransmit and receive paths for the radio 105 can be isolated from eachother when performing transmission and reception operations,respectively. In other words, the RX/TX switches 139 and 141 can beoperated to route RF signals through the power amplifier 107 duringtransmission, and around the power amplifier 107 during reception.Therefore, the RF power amplifier 107 output can be isolated from the RFinput of the radio 105.

In one embodiment, each of the RX/TX switches 139 and 141 is defined asa model HMC174MS8 switch manufactured by Hittite. However, it should beunderstood that in other embodiments each of the RX/TX switches 139 and141 can be defined as another type of RF switch so long as it is capableof transitioning between transmit and receive channels in accordancewith a control signal. Also, in one embodiment, the power amplifier 107is defined as a model HMC414MS8 2.4 GHz power amplifier manufactured byHittite. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments thepower amplifier 107 can be defined as another type of amplifier so longas it is capable of processing RF signals for long-range communicationand is power manageable in accordance with a control signal. In oneembodiment, the power amplifier 107 and RX/TX switches 139 and 141 canbe combined into a single device, such as the model CC2591 devicemanufactured by Texas Instruments by way of example.

The mLOCK 100 is further equipped with an RX/TX control circuit 189defined to direct cooperative operation of the RX/TX switches 139 and141, and to direct power control of the power amplifier 107 and LNA 137.The RX/TX control circuit 189 receives an RX/TX control signal from thechip 101, as indicated by arrow 191. In response to the RX/TX controlsignal, the RX/TX control circuit 189 transmits respective controlsignals to the RX/TX switches 139 and 141, as indicated by arrows 193and 195, respectively, such that continuity is established along eitherthe transmission path or the receive path, as directed by the RX/TXcontrol signal received from the chip 101. Also, in response to theRX/TX control signal, the RX/TX control circuit 189 transmits a powercontrol signal to the power amplifier 107, as indicated by arrow 201.This power control signal directs the power amplifier 107 to power upwhen the RF transmission path is to be used, and to power down when theRF transmission path is to be idled.

In one embodiment, the LDD 111 includes a processor 113 and a memory115, such as a RAM, wherein the memory 115 is read and write accessibleby the processor 113 for storage of data associated with LDD 111operation. In one embodiment, the LDD 111 and chip 101 are interfacedtogether, as indicated by arrow 161, such that the processor 103 of thechip 101 can communicate with the processor 113 of the LDD 111 to enableprogramming of the LDD 111. In various embodiments, the interfacebetween the LDD 111 and chip 101 may be implemented using a serial port,such as a universal serial bus (USB), conductive traces on the mLOCK 100printed circuit board, or essentially any other type of interfacesuitable for conveyance of digital signals. Additionally, it should beunderstood that in some embodiments, the processor 113 of the LDD 111can be defined to work in conjunction with, or as an alternate to, theprocessor 103 of chip 101 in servicing the requirements of the mLOCK 100when necessary.

Also, in one embodiment, a pin of the LDD 111 is defined for use as anexternal interrupt pin to enable wakeup of the LDD 111 from a low powermode of operation, i.e., sleep mode. For example, the chip 101 can beconnected to the external interrupt pin of the LDD 111 to enablecommunication of a wakeup signal from the chip 101 to the LDD 111, asindicated by arrow 165. The LDD 111 is further connected to the chip 101to enable communication of data from the LDD 111 to the chip 101, asindicated by arrow 163.

The LDD 111 is also defined to receive an RF signal, as indicated byarrow 157. The RF signal received by the LDD 111 is transmitted from theLDD antenna 121 to a low noise amplifier (LNA) 117, as indicated byarrow 159. Then, the RF signal is transmitted from the LNA 117 to asignal filter 119, as indicated by arrow 155. Then, the RF signal istransmitted from the filter 119 to the LDD 111, as indicated by arrow157.

Additionally, in one embodiment, the LDD 111 is defined as a single chipASIC, including an onboard flash memory 115 and an ARM processor core113. For example, in various embodiments, the LDD 111 can be implementedas either of the following types of GPS receivers, among others:

a model GSC3f/LP GPS receiver manufactured by SiRF,

a model GSC2f/LP GPS receiver manufactured by SiRF,

a model GSC3e/LP GPS receiver manufactured by SiRF,

a model NX3 GPS receiver manufactured by Nemerix, or

a model NJ030A GPS receiver manufactured by Nemerix.

The LNA 117 and signal filter 119 are provided to amplify and clean theRF signal received from the LDD antenna 121. In one embodiment, the LNA117 can be implemented as an L-Band device, such as an 18 dBi low noiseamplifier. For example, in this embodiment the LNA 117 can beimplemented as a model UPC8211TK amplifier manufactured by NEC. Inanother embodiment, the LNA 117 can be implemented as a model BGA615L7amplifier manufactured by Infineon. Also, the LNA 117 is defined to havea control input for receiving control signals from the LDD 111, asindicated by arrow 153. Correspondingly, the LNA 117 is defined tounderstand and operate in accordance with the control signals receivedfrom the LDD 111. In the embodiment where the LDD 111 is implemented asthe model GSC3f/LP GPS receiver by SiRF, a GPIO4 pin on the GSC3f/LPchip can be used to control the LNA 117 power, thereby enabling the LNA117 to be powered down and powered up in accordance with a controlalgorithm.

In one embodiment, the signal filter 119 is defined as an L-Band device,such as a Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) filter. For example, in oneembodiment, the signal filter 119 is implemented as a modelB39162B3520U410 SAW filter manufactured by EPCOS Inc. As previouslystated, an output of the signal filter 119 is connected to an RF inputof the LDD 111, as indicated by arrow 157. In one embodiment, a 50 ohmmicro-strip trace on the printed circuit board of the mLOCK 100 is usedto connect the output of the signal filter 119 to the RF input of theLDD 111. Also, in one embodiment, the signal filter 119 is tuned to passRF signals at 1575 MHz to the RF input of the LDD 111.

The mLOCK 100 also includes a data interface 123 defined to enableelectrical connection of various external devices to the LDD 111 andchip 101 of the mLOCK 100. For example, in one embodiment, the chip 101includes a number of reconfigurable general purpose interfaces that areelectrically connected to respective pins of the data interface 123.Thus, in this embodiment, an external device (such as a sensor forcommercial and/or security applications) can be electrically connectedto communicate with the chip 101 through the data interface 123, asindicated by arrow 169. The LDD 111 is also connected to the datainterface 123 to enable electrical communication between an externalentity and the LDD 111, as indicated by arrow 167. For example, anexternal entity may be connected to the LDD 111 through the datainterface 123 to program the LDD 111. It should be appreciated that thedata interface 123 can be defined in different ways in variousembodiments. For example, in one embodiment, the data interface 123 isdefined as a serial interface including a number of pins to which anexternal device may connect. In other example, the data interface may bedefined as a USB interface, among others.

The mLOCK 100 also includes an extended memory 135 connected to theprocessor 103 of the chip 101, as indicated by arrow 175. The extendedmemory 135 is defined as a non-volatile memory that can be accessed bythe processor 103 for data storage and retrieval. In one embodiment, theextended memory 135 is defined as a solid-state non-volatile memory,such as a flash memory. The extended memory 135 can be defined toprovide segmented non-volatile storage, and can be controlled by thesoftware executed on the processor 103. In one embodiment, separateblocks of memory within the extended memory 135 can be allocated fordedicated use by either security applications or commercialapplications. In one embodiment, the extended memory 135 is a modelM25P10-A flash memory manufactured by ST Microelectronics. In anotherembodiment, the extended memory 135 is a model M25PE20 flash memorymanufactured by Numonyx. It should be understood that in otherembodiments, many other different types of extended memory 135 may beutilized so long as the extended memory 135 can be operably interfacedwith the processor 103.

The mLOCK 100 also includes a motion sensor 133 in electricalcommunication with the chip 101, i.e., with the processor 103, asindicated by arrow 173. The motion sensor 133 is defined to detectphysical movement of the mLOCK 100, and thereby detect physical movementof the asset to which the mLOCK 100 is affixed. The processor 103 isdefined to receive motion detection signals from the motion sensor 133,and based on the received motion detection signals determine anappropriate mode of operation for the mLOCK 100. Many different types ofmotion sensors 133 may be utilized in various embodiments. For example,in some embodiments, the motion sensor 133 may be defined as anaccelerometer, a gyro, a mercury switch, a micro-pendulum, among othertypes. Also, in one embodiment, the mLOCK 100 may be equipped withmultiple motion sensors 133 in electrical communication with the chip101. Use of multiple motion sensors 133 may be implemented to provideredundancy and/or diversity in sensing technology/stimuli. For example,in one embodiment, the motion sensor 133 is a model ADXL330 motionsensor manufactured by Analog Devices. In another exemplary embodiment,the motion sensor 133 is a model ADXL311 accelerometer manufactured byAnalog Devices. In yet another embodiment, the motion sensor 133 is amodel ADXRS50 gyro manufactured by Analog Devices.

The mLOCK 100 also includes a voltage regulator 187 connected to thepower source 143. The voltage regulator 187 is defined to provide aminimum power dropout when the power source 143 is implemented as abattery. The voltage regulator 187 is further defined to provideoptimized voltage control and regulation to the powered components ofthe mLOCK 100. In one embodiment, a capacitive filter is connected atthe output of the voltage regulator 187 to work in conjunction with atuned bypass circuit between the power plane of the mLOCK 100 and aground potential, so as to minimize noise and RF coupling with the LNA's117 and 137 of the LDD 111 and radio 105, respectively.

Also, in one embodiment, the radio 105 and LDD 111 are connected toreceive common reset and brown out protection signals from the voltageregulator 187 to synchronize mLOCK 100 startup and to protect againstexecuting corrupted memory (115/104) during a slow ramping power up orduring power source 143, e.g., battery, brown out. In one exemplaryembodiment, the voltage regulator 187 is a model TPS77930 voltageregulator manufactured by Texas Instruments. In another exemplaryembodiment, the voltage regulator 187 is a model TPS77901 voltageregulator manufactured by Texas Instruments. It should be appreciatedthat different types of voltage regulator 187 may be utilized in otherembodiments, so long as the voltage regulator is defined to provideoptimized voltage control and regulation to the powered components ofthe mLOCK 100.

To enable long-term mLOCK 100 deployment with minimal maintenance, theprocessor 103 of the chip 101 is operated to execute a power managementprogram for the mLOCK 100. The power management program controls thesupply of power to various components within the mLOCK 100, most notablyto the LDD 111 and radio 105. The mLOCK 100 has four primary powerstates:

1) LDD 111 Off and radio 105 Off,

2) LDD 111 Off and radio 105 On,

3) LDD 111 On and radio 105 Off, and

4) LDD 111 On and radio 105 On.

The power management program is defined such that a normal operatingstate of the mLOCK 100 is a sleep mode in which both the LDD 111 andradio 105 are powered off. The power management program is defined topower on the LDD 111 and/or radio 105 in response to events, such asmonitored conditions, external stimuli, and pre-programmed settings. Forexample, a movement event or movement temporal record, as detected bythe motion sensor 133 and communicated to the processor 103, may be usedas an event to cause either or both of the LDD 111 and radio 105 to bepowered up from sleep mode. In another example, a pre-programmedschedule may be used to trigger power up of either or both of the LDD111 and radio 105 from sleep mode. Additionally, other events such asreceipt of a communications request, external sensor data, geolocation,or combination thereof, may serve as triggers to power up either or bothof the LDD 111 and radio 105 from sleep mode.

The power management program is also defined to power down the mLOCK 100components as soon as possible following completion of any requested orrequired operations. Depending on the operations being performed, thepower management program may direct either of the LDD 111 or radio 105to power down while the other continues to operate. Or, the operationalconditions may permit the power management program to simultaneouslypower down both the LDD 111 and radio 105.

To support the power management program, the mLOCK 100 utilizes fourseparate crystal oscillators. Specifically, with reference to FIG. 2,the chip 101 utilizes a 32 MHz (megaHertz) oscillator 125 to provide abase operational clock for the chip 101, as indicated by arrow 149. Thechip 101 also utilizes a 32 kHz (kiloHertz) oscillator 127 to provide areal-time clock for wakeup of the chip 101 from the sleep mode ofoperation, as indicated by arrow 151. The LDD 111 utilizes a 24 MHzoscillator 129 to provide a base operational clock for the LDD 111, asindicated by arrow 147. Also, the LDD 111 utilizes a 32 kHz oscillator131 to provide a real-time clock for wakeup of the LDD 111 from thesleep mode of operation, as indicated by arrow 145. It should beunderstood, however, that in other embodiments, other oscillatorarrangements may be utilized to provide the necessary clocking for thechip 101 and LDD 111. For example, crystal oscillators of differentfrequency may be used, depending on the operational requirements of theLDD 111 and chip 101.

The lock actuator 146 is defined to receive control signals from theprocessor 103, as indicated by arrow 176. In response to the controlsignals received from the processor 103, the lock actuator 146 isdefined to generate two discrete amplified signals to provide power tocontrol the lock motor mechanism. The two discrete amplified signalsprovided by the lock actuator 146 provide power and the correct currentpolarity to drive the lock motor in each of two possible directions,respectively.

The lock sensors 148 are defined to convey data signals to the processor103, as indicated by arrow 178. The data signals conveyed by the locksensors 148 includes a first data signal providing a status of the mLOCK100 shackle position (open/closed), and a second data signal providing astatus of the mLOCK 100 lock motor position (locked/unlocked). The datasignals conveyed by the lock sensor 148 are monitored by the processor103 to enable control and monitoring of the mLOCK 100 state.

The user interface display 144 and associated user input button(s) aredefined to bi-directionally communicate with the processor 103. The userinterface display 144 is managed by the processor 103. In oneembodiment, data transmitted from the processor 103 to the userinterface display 144 is rendered in the user interface display 144 intext form, i.e., in alpha-numeric form. Additionally, the processor 103monitors the status of the one or more user input buttons to allow theuser to control/select information rendered in the user interfacedisplay 144 and/or to trigger certain conditions in the mLOCK 100.

FIG. 3 is an illustration showing a flowchart of a method for operatinga radiofrequency tracking and communication device, i.e., mLOCK 100, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The method ofFIG. 3 represents an example of how the power management program can beimplemented within the mLOCK 100. The method includes an operation 301for maintaining a minimum power consumption state of the mLOCK 100 untilissuance of a wakeup signal by the processor 103. As mentioned above,the minimum power consumption state of the mLOCK 100 exists when boththe LDD 111 and the radio 105 are powered off.

The method also includes an operation 303 for operating the motionsensor 133 during the minimum power consumption state. The methodfurther includes an operation 305 for identifying detection by themotion sensor 133 of a threshold level of movement. It should beunderstood that because the motion sensor 133 is disposed onboard themLOCK 100, the threshold level of movement detected by the motion sensor133 corresponds to movement of the mLOCK 100, and the asset to which themLOCK 100 is affixed.

In one embodiment, the threshold level of movement is defined as asingle motion detection signal of at least a specified magnitude. Inthis embodiment, the processor 103 is defined to receive the motiondetection signal from the motion sensor 133 and determine whether thereceived motion detection signal exceeds a specified magnitude as storedin the memory 104. In another embodiment, the threshold level ofmovement is defined as an integral of motion detection signals havingreached at least a specified magnitude. In this embodiment, motiondetection signals are received and stored by the processor 103 over aperiod of time. The processor 103 determines whether or not theintegral, i.e., sum, of the received motion detection signals over theperiod of time has reached or exceeded a specified magnitude as storedin the memory 104. Additionally, the two embodiments regarding thethreshold level of movement as disclosed above may be implemented in acombined manner.

In response to identifying that the threshold level of movement has beenreached or exceeded, the method includes an operation 307 for issuingthe wakeup signal to transition from the minimum power consumption stateto a normal operating power consumption state of the mLOCK 100. Thewakeup signal is generated by the processor 103, upon recognition by theprocessor 103 that the threshold level of movement has been reached orexceeded. The processor 103 can be operated to transmit the wakeupsignal to either or both the LDD 111 and radio 105, depending on anoperation sequence to be performed upon reaching the threshold level ofmovement.

With reference back to operation 301, the method may proceed with anoperation 311 in which an RF communication signal is received during theminimum power consumption state. In response to receiving the RFcommunication signal, the method proceeds with the operation 307 forissuing the wakeup signal to transition the mLOCK 100 from the minimumpower consumption state to the normal operating power consumption state.Again, the wakeup signal is generated by the processor 103, and maydirect the radio 105, LDD 111, or both to power up, depending on thecontent of the received RF communication signal.

Also, with reference back to operation 301, the method may proceed withan operation 313 for monitoring a real-time clock relative to a wakeupschedule. In one embodiment, the monitoring of the real-time clockrelative to the wakeup schedule is performed by the processor 103 whilethe mLOCK 100 is in the minimum power consumption state. Upon reaching aspecified wakeup time in the wakeup schedule, the method proceeds withoperation 307 to issue the wakeup signal to transition the mLOCK 100from the minimum power consumption state to the normal operating powerconsumption state.

With reference back to operation 301, the method may proceed with anoperation 315 for receiving a signal through the data interface 123during the minimum power consumption state. In one embodiment, thesignal received through the data interface 123 may be a data signalgenerated by an external device connected to the data interface 123. Forexample, a sensor may be connected to the data interface 123, and maytransmit a data signal indicative of a monitored alarm or condition thattriggers the processor 103 to generate a wakeup signal to power upeither or both of the LDD 111 and radio 105. For example, the datasignal may be a push button signal, an intrusion alarm signal, achemical/biological agent detection signal, a temperature signal, ahumidity signal, or essentially any other type of signal that may begenerated by a sensing device.

Additionally, a user may connect a computing device, such as a handheldcomputing device or laptop computer, to the data interface 123 tocommunicate with the LDD 111 or processor 103. In one embodiment,connection of the computing device to the data interface 123 will causethe processor 103 to generate a wakeup signal to power up either or bothof the LDD 111 and radio 105. In response to receiving the signalthrough the data interface 123 in operation 315, the method proceedswith the operation 307 for issuing the wakeup signal to transition themLOCK 100 from the minimum power consumption state to the normaloperating power consumption state. Again, in operation 307, the wakeupsignal is generated by the processor 103, and may direct the radio 105,LDD 111, or both to power up, depending on the type of signal receivedthrough the data interface 123.

Upon transitioning to the normal operating power consumption state, themLOCK 100 may perform an operation 317 to decode a received command. Itshould be understood that the mLOCK 100 can be “awakened” by manydifferent means, including but not limited to, a keychain controller, aremote control, a radio network, or by geographical proximity to awaypoint. If the received command is a lock actuator 146 command, anoperation 319 is performed in which the lock actuator 146 executes thelock/unlock mechanism command. If the received command is a mode controlcommand, an operation 321 is performed in which the processor 103 setsthe corresponding mode configuration parameters in the mLOCK 100software/hardware. Example mode control commands can include displayand/or entry of waypoint settings, mLOCK 100 security settings, mLOCK100 identification settings, radio channel settings, schedules, securenetwork encryption keys, or any combination thereof, among others. Themethod also includes an operation 309 in which the mLOCK 100 istransitioned from the normal operating power consumption state back tothe minimum power consumption state upon completion of either aspecified operation or a specified idle period by the mLOCK 100.

An inductive loop is integrated into the mLOCK 100 to provide for RFimpedance matching between the various RF portions of the mLOCK 100. Inone embodiment, the inductive loop is tuned to provide a 0.5 nH(nanoHertz) reactive load over a wavelength trace. In one embodiment,the impedance match between the RF output from the radio 105 and theRX/TX switch 139 is 50 ohms. Also, the RF power amplifier 107 iscapacitively coupled with the RX/TX switch 141. Additionally, in oneembodiment, to provide for decoupling of the power source 143 from theradio 105, eight high frequency ceramic capacitors are tied between thepower pins of the chip 101 and the ground potential of the mLOCK 100.

In one embodiment, a power plane of the chip 101 is defined as a splitindependent inner power plane that is DC-coupled with the LDD 111 powerplane through an RF choke and capacitive filter. In this embodiment,noise from a phase lock loop circuit within the radio 105 will notcouple via the inner power plane of the chip 101 to the power plane ofthe LDD 111. In this manner, radio harmonics associated with operationof the radio 105 are prevented from significantly coupling with the LDD111 during simultaneous operation of the both the radio 105 and LDD 111,thereby maintaining LDD 111 sensitivity.

An impedance matching circuit is also provided to ensure that the RFsignal can be received by the LDD 111 without substantial signal loss.More specifically, the RF input to the LDD 111 utilizes an impedancematching circuit tuned for dielectric properties of the mLOCK 100circuit board. In one embodiment, the connection from the LDD antenna121 to the LNA 117 is DC-isolated from the RF input at the LNA 117 usinga 100 pf (picofarad) capacitor, and is impedance matched to 50 ohms.Also, in one embodiment, the output of the LNA 117 is impedance matchedto 50 ohms.

FIG. 4A shows the physical components of the mLOCK 100, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention. Electronics 409 aredefined on a printed circuit board as described above with regard toFIG. 2. In addition to the components described with regard to FIG. 2,the electronics 409 also include the user interface display 144.

Electrical power for the mLOCK 100 is provided by a battery 407. Also,in one embodiment, the mLOCK 100 includes a solar film 405 defined toprovide trickle-charging to the battery 407 to extend the battery 407life. Shackle and locking mechanism components are also shown, asindicated by reference 411. FIG. 4C shows a more detailed view of theshackle and locking mechanism components of reference 411. Theelectronics 409, battery 407, solar film 405, shackle and lockingmechanism components 411 are secured within the body, i.e., shell, ofthe mLOCK 100. FIG. 4B shows a closer expanded view of the front shell413, rear shell 415, interlocking plate 421, and push plate 419, inaccordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

The body of the mLOCK 100 is defined by a front shell 413 and a rearshell 415, which fit together in a sandwiched manner to enclose themLOCK 100 components. Also, the mLOCK 100 includes a push plate 419 andan interlocking plate 421. The push plate is movable inside the shell ofthe mLOCK 100. The interlocking plate 421 is connected to the rear shell415 by way of fasteners 417. When an external force is applied to movethe push plate 419, the push plate 419 moves within the mLOCK 100 todisengage the locking mechanism of the shackle. This is described inmore detail with regard to FIG. 4C. The mLOCK 100 also includes buttonoverlays 403A and a display overlay 403B. Also, to enhance durability inone embodiment, the mLOCK 100 can include rubber shackle molds 401A anda rubber body mold 401B.

It should be appreciated that the mLOCK 100 does not include anyexternal assembly features that can be accessed to disassemble the mLOCK100 once it has been locked. The mLOCK 100 can only be disassembled viaa set screw 468 that is internal to the mLOCK 100. This set screw 468 isaccessible only when the mLOCK 100 shackle has been unlocked and opened.

FIG. 4C shows an expanded view of the shackle and locking mechanismcomponent of reference 411, in accordance with one embodiment of thepresent invention. A shackle 450 is defined to be disposed within achannel within the rear shell 415 of the mLOCK 100. The shackle 450 isdefined to be movable along the channel length and is defined to berotatable within the channel. A retainer 460 is attached to the shackle450 to prevent the shackle 450 from being completely withdrawn from thechannel and to control an amount of rotation of the shackle 450 withinthe channel. The shackle 450 is defined to insert into an opening 470 inthe shell to close a shackle loop 472. The shackle 450 is also definedto release from the opening 470 in the shell to open the shackle loop472.

A latch plate is disposed inside the shell and is defined to engage theshackle 450 to lock the shackle 450, when the shackle 450 is insertedinto the opening 470 in the shell to close the shackle loop 472. Morespecifically, the latch plate is defined to move in a direction 474 toengage with locking slots 452 formed within the shackle 450, and to movein a direction 476 to disengage from the locking slots 452 formed withinthe shackle 450.

As previously mentioned, the push plate 419 is disposed inside the shelland is defined to moved in the direction 474 and 476. Specifically, thepush plate 419 is defined to move in the direction 476 when an externalforce is applied to the push plate 419, as indicated by arrow 478 inFIG. 4B.

A motor 458 is mechanically fixed to the push plate 419, such that whenthe push plate 419 moves in the directions 474 and 476, the motor 458moves with the push plate 419 in the same direction. A cam 456 ismechanically connected to be moved by the motor 458, in a direction 480,to engage with the latch plate 454. The cam 456 is rigidly connected tothe motor 458 such that movement of the motor 458 through movement ofthe push plate 419 causes corresponding movement of the cam 456.Therefore, movement of the push plate 419 in the direction 476 by theapplied external force 478, with the motor 458 operated to engage thecam 456 with the latch plate 454, causes the latch plate 454 to move inthe direction 476 to disengage from the shackle 450, thereby freeing theshackle 450 to release from the shell to open the shackle loop 472.

A first spring 464 is defined to disengage the cam 456 from the latchplate 454 when the motor 458 is not powered to move the cam 456 toengage with the latch plate 454. In one embodiment, the first spring 464is a torsional spring. A second spring 466 is defined to engage thelatch plate 454 with the shackle 450, i.e., with the locking slots 452of the shackle 450, in an absence of the applied external force 478 tomove the push plate 419 when the cam 456 is also moved to engage thelatch plate 454. A third spring 462 is defined to resist the externalforce 478 applied to move the push plate 419, such that the push plate419 is returned to its home position in the absence of the appliedexternal force 478.

The interlocking plate 421 is disposed within the body of the mLOCK 100and secured to the shell 415 to cover the push plate 419, the motor 458,the cam 456, the latch plate 454, and the shackle 450, such that thelocking mechanism of the mLOCK 100 cannot be accessed without removal ofthe interlocking plate 421. Also, the interlocking plate 421 is securedto the shell 415 by a fastener, i.e., set screw 468, that is onlyaccessible through the opening 470 in the shell 415 when the shackle 450is released from the opening 470 in the shell 415 to open the shackleloop 472.

It should be understood that the push plate 419 and the latch plate 454physically interface with each other such that a force applied to theshackle 450 is transferred through the shackle 450 to the latch plate454 to the push plate 419 to the shell 415. Therefore, the motor 458 andcam 456 are isolated from any force applied to the shackle 450.Additionally, the processor onboard the mLOCK 100 is defined to monitora state of the mLOCK 100, and autonomously control the motor 458 to movethe cam 456 based on the monitored state of the mLOCK 100.

In one embodiment, a locking device, i.e., the mLOCK 100, is disclosed.The locking device includes a processor defined to control operation ofthe locking device. The locking device also includes a radio defined inelectrical communication with the processor, and a locationdetermination device defined in electrical communication with theprocessor. A combination of the processor, the radio, and the locationdetermination device forms a wireless tracking and communication systemonboard the locking device. The locking device also includes a shackleand a locking mechanism defined in electrical communication with theprocessor. The processor is defined to operate the locking mechanism tocontrol locking and unlocking of the shackle based on informationobtained through the wireless tracking and communication system.

The processor is defined to operate the locking mechanism based on oneor more of a proximity of the locking device to a secure wirelesscommunication network, a terrestrial position of the locking device, andone or more commands received through the wireless tracking andcommunication system. The locking device also includes a memory disposedin electrical communication with the processor for recording data. Therecorded data can include program instructions for operating thewireless tracking and communication system, settings associated withoperation of the locking device, a time-dependent status of the lockingdevice, among other types of data. Also, the locking device includes auser interface display disposed in electrical communication with theprocessor and defined to visually render data recorded in the memory.The locking device further includes a user interface control devicedisposed in electrical communication with the processor and defined tocontrol which data is rendered in the user interface display. In oneembodiment, the user interface display is a liquid crystal display, andthe user interface control device is a mechanical button.

As discussed above, the locking mechanism also includes a latch platedefined to be movable to engage with and lock the shackle, and definedto be movable to disengage from and unlock the shackle. The lockingmechanism also includes a cam defined to be movable in a first directionto engage with the latch plate such that movement of the cam in a seconddirection causes movement of the latch plate in the second direction.The locking mechanism also includes a motor mechanically connected tocontrol movement of the cam in the first direction to engage with thelatch plate. The motor is electrically connected to be controlled by theprocessor. Also, the locking device includes lock sensors defined todetermine a position of the cam relative to the latch plate andelectrically communicate the determined position of the cam to theprocessor. It should be appreciated that the shackle can only beunlocked through operation of the processor to control the motor to movethe cam to engage the latch plate.

FIG. 5 shows a flowchart of a method for autonomous operation of alocking device based on a status of the locking device, in accordancewith one embodiment of the present invention. The method includes anoperation 501 for operating a computing system onboard the lockingdevice to automatically determine a real-time status of the lockingdevice. The method also includes an operation 503 for operating thecomputing system to automatically control a locking mechanism of thelocking device to either lock or unlock the locking device, based on theautomatically determined real-time status of the locking device.

In one embodiment, the real-time status of the locking device includesone or more of a presence of any pending command to be executed by thecomputing system, a presence of a user interaction with a control of thelocking device, a presence of a scheduled task to be performed by thecomputing system, a current state of a power supply of the lockingdevice, and a current environment state of the locking device. In oneembodiment, the current environment state of the locking device includesone or more of a current state of motion of the locking device, acurrent terrestrial position of the locking device, a current proximityof the locking device to a wireless communication network to which thecomputing system can wirelessly communicate, a temperature near thelocking device, a humidity near the locking device, a radioactivitylevel near the locking device, a chemical presence near the lockingdevice, and an external movement near the locking device.

In one embodiment, operating the computing system onboard the lockingdevice to automatically determine the real-time status of the lockingdevice in operation 501 includes operating a wireless tracking systemwithin the computing system onboard the locking device to determine aterrestrial position of the locking device.

In one embodiment, operating the computing system onboard the lockingdevice to automatically determine the real-time status of the lockingdevice in operation 501 includes operating a wireless communicationsystem within the computing system onboard the locking device to accessa wireless network and receive commands from one or more sources overthe wireless network. The received commands update the real-time statusof the locking device to direct the computing system onboard the lockingdevice to either lock or unlock the locking device.

In one embodiment, operating the computing system onboard the lockingdevice to automatically determine the real-time status of the lockingdevice in operation 501 includes operating the computing system toacquire data from one or more sensors proximate to the locking device.In this embodiment, some of the one or more sensors proximate to thelocking device can be physically attached to the locking device andcommunicate data with the computing system through wired connections.Also, in this embodiment, some of the one or more sensors proximate tothe locking device may not be physically attached to the locking deviceand can communicate data with the computing system through a wirelessmeans. In various embodiments, the one or more sensors can include oneor more of a movement sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor,an infrared sensor, a radioactivity detection sensor, an acousticsensor, and a chemical detection sensor, among others.

In one embodiment, the method can also include an operation foroperating the computing system onboard the locking device toautomatically record data in a memory onboard the locking device. Inthis embodiment, the data includes information about the determinedreal-time status of the locking device. For example, the data caninclude time-stamped information about one or more of a terrestrialposition of the locking device, a security event associated with thelocking device, a shackle state of the locking device, a networkcommunication received or transmitted by the computing system onboardthe locking device, a physical movement of the locking device, and anenvironmental condition to which the locking device is exposed, amongother types of data. Additionally, the method can include operation of awireless communication system within the computing system onboard thelocking device to transmit data automatically recorded in the memoryonboard the locking device to a receiver within a wireless networkwithin range of the locking device.

As described herein, the mLOCK 100 is an electronic lock that canautomatically secure an asset by activating a locking mechanism thereinwhen the mLOCK 100 is either a) out of range of a secured network, b)has departed from a pre-determined waypoint based on latitude andlongitude (GPS), c) has an expired schedule, or d) has detected motion.Also, the mLOCK 100 can be set to automatically unlock when the mLOCK100 negotiates with a secure network or arrives at a user definedwaypoint. The behavior of the mLOCK 100 can be modified by remote (andsecure) commands, thereby allowing the mLOCK 100 behavior to beconfigured for specific uses at specific times, e.g., on a shippingcontainer trip-by-trip basis.

The expansion of global commerce drives the shipping industry. Ships,trains, and trucks move cargo containers around the world relativelyunattended and unnoticed. These are areas of vulnerability thatterrorists and thieves can exploit. It should be appreciated that themLOCK 100 is particularly well-suited for application in shippingcontainer security, container trucking operations, and air cargocontainer security. In particular, the mLOCK 100 provides protectionagainst hazardous materials being placed inside of a cargo container orvaluable assets being removed from the container using its featuresdescribed herein, including: a) door lock with shackle open/close/cutalarms, b) embedded location and tracking information, and c) worldwide,multi-mode communication links. To exemplify the particular utility ofthe mLOCK 100 device, a few example applications are described below,include air cargo security, inbond shipping, and anti-pilferage. Itshould be understood, however, that these are a few examples of how themLOCK 100 may be utilized and in no way represent an exclusive set ofmLOCK 100 applications.

Air Cargo Security

The U.S. Congress has directed the U.S. Transportation Security Agency(TSA) to monitor air cargo that is destined for placement inside theholding compartment of passenger planes. The current method of securityis to have a TSA agent drive a car behind delivery trucks from the pointwhere cargo is added to the truck to the airport where the contents ofthe truck are loaded onto the passenger plane.

The mLOCK is part of a system that would automate the tracking,monitoring, and security of the truck from the point-of-stuffing to thepoint-of-devanning. The scenario may involves the following steps:

-   -   (a) Freight forwarder sets up inventory of mLOCKs 100.    -   (b) An mLOCK 100 is chosen from inventory for commissioning.    -   (c) Freight forwarder logs into secure website to transmit        destination and vehicle license plate information to the mLOCK        100 via either a wireless or wired connection.    -   (d) mLOCK 100 is taken to vehicle and the license plate of the        vehicle is compared to the license plate information displayed        on the mLOCK 100 user interface display 144.    -   (e) mLOCK 100 is opened and placed on doors of truck securing        the doors shut.    -   (f) The driver of the truck is provided with a keyfob that can        unlock or lock the mLOCK 100.    -   (g) If the driver forgets to lock the mLOCK 100, the mLOCK 100        firmware automatically locks the mLOCK 100 after travel outside        of the trusted zone (either wireless beacon drop-off or geofence        area) programmed during commissioning.    -   (h) If the driver unlocks and opens the mLOCK 100 in route to        the airport and outside of a trusted zone, the mLOCK 100        generates an alarm and immediately transmits the alarm via the        mLOCK's 100 embedded Wide Area Network module (e.g. cellular or        satellite) to a TSA website.    -   (i) Upon arrival at the airport, a TSA agent looks at the mLOCK        100 user interface display 144 to see if an alarm was generated        in route. If so, the mLOCK 100 is removed and the truck is        inspected. If not, the mLOCK 100 is removed and returned to the        freight forwarder for use in future shipments.

Inbond Shipping

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency collects fees fromshippers whose cargo transits the United States and is bound for aforeign country. This is known as an inbond shipment. For example, aCanadian company is selling radio parts to a distributor in Mexico. Whenthe truck from Canada arrives at the U.S. border crossing, the manifestshows an estimated date for crossing the border into Mexico. CBP doesnot currently have a means to verify when and if the truck left thecountry, so fee collection is based upon the manifest estimate. Thispresents both a security risk and a potential loss of revenue for CBP.

The mLOCK can be used as follows for Inbond Shipping:

-   -   (a) Border crossings maintain an inventory of mLOCKs 100.    -   (b) A CBP agent commissions an mLOCK 100 with license plate        identifier, destination, and estimated departure date using a        secure CBP website that transmits the data to the mLOCK 100        using either a wired or wireless connection.    -   (c) The CBP agent confirms the license ID of the truck with the        license information displayed on the mLOCK 100 user interface        display 144 and attaches the mLOCK 100 to the door of the truck.    -   (d) When the truck leaves the trusted area of the CBP inspection        center, the mLOCK 100 automatically locks due to either a loss        of a wireless signal or movement beyond a geofence area.    -   (e) While in transit across the U.S., the mLOCK 100 logs        location information.    -   (f) If the mLOCK 100 shackle is cut or otherwise opened, the        mLOCK 100 will log this as an alarm and transmit the alarm and        truck location via the mLOCK's 100 embedded Wide Area Network        module to the CBP.    -   (g) If the truck does not cross an exit geofence point within        the designated time, the mLOCK 100 logs on and transmits an        alarm and truck location to CBP via the mLOCK's 100 Wide Area        Network module.    -   (h) Upon the truck's arrival at the departure point, the CBP        agent will be aware of any in transit alarms and can verify the        alarm state via the mLOCK's 100 user interface display 144.    -   (i) The CBP agent can unlock the mLOCK 100 via either a handheld        reader that queries the mLOCK 100 for additional information or        via a trusted zone wireless signal that will automatically        unlock the mLOCK 100.    -   (j) The mLOCK 100 is removed and used for the next inbond        shipment.

Anti-Pilferage

While the government agencies are focused mainly on what goes into atruck or container, the commercial shipper is more concerned with whatis taken out of the truck or container. The mLOCK 100 provides a meansfor inhibiting access to the truck or container through the primarydoor. Using trusted zones, such as the stored waypoints on the mLOCK 100or authorized radio signal emitter, the mLOCK 100 can automaticallyunlock and lock. Also, additional sensors inside the truck or containerthat are equipped with a compatible wireless device can transmitstate-of-health information to the mLOCK's 100 wireless radio. The mLOCK100 can then upload location and sensor information while in route basedupon the mLOCK's 100 commissioned thresholds and schedules and via themLOCK's 100 embedded Wide Area Network module in cases where a LocalArea Network compatible with the mLOCK's 100 RF signal is not available.

It should be understood that portions of the invention described hereincan be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium.The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can storedata which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Portions of thepresent invention can also be defined as a machine that transforms datafrom one state to another state. The data may represent an article, thatcan be represented as an electronic signal and electronically manipulatedata. The transformed data can, in some cases, be visually depicted on adisplay, representing the physical object that results from thetransformation of data. The transformed data can be saved to storagegenerally, or in particular formats that enable the construction ordepiction of a physical and tangible object. In some embodiments, themanipulation can be performed by a processor. In such an example, theprocessor thus transforms the data from one thing to another. Stillfurther, the methods can be processed by one or more machines orprocessors that can be connected over a network. Each machine cantransform data from one state or thing to another, and can also processdata, save data to storage, transmit data over a network, display theresult, or communicate the result to another machine.

While this invention has been described in terms of several embodiments,it will be appreciated that those skilled in the art upon reading thepreceding specifications and studying the drawings will realize variousalterations, additions, permutations and equivalents thereof. Therefore,it is intended that the present invention includes all such alterations,additions, permutations, and equivalents as fall within the true spiritand scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A locking device, comprising: a processor definedto control operation of the locking device; a long range radio definedin electrical communication with the processor; a location determinationdevice positioned within the locking device, the location determinationdevice defined in electrical communication with the processor, wherein acombination of the processor, the long range radio, and the locationdetermination device forms a wireless tracking and communication system;a shackle; and a locking mechanism defined in electrical communicationwith the processor, wherein the processor is defined to operate thelocking mechanism to control locking and unlocking of the shackle basedon one or more of a proximity of the locking device to a secure wirelesscommunication network, a terrestrial position of the locking device, andone or more commands received through the wireless tracking andcommunication system, and wherein the shackle can only be unlockedthrough operation of the processor.
 2. A locking device as recited inclaim 1, further comprising: a power source defined to supply electricalpower to the processor, the long range radio, the location determinationdevice, and the locking mechanism.
 3. A locking device as recited inclaim 2, further comprising: a solar film electrically connected to thepower source and defined to electrically re-charge the power source. 4.A locking device as recited in claim 1, wherein the long range radio isan international frequency radio, and wherein the location determinationdevice is a global positioning system receiver device.
 5. A lockingdevice as recited in claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism includes alatch plate defined to be movable to engage with and lock the shackle,and defined to be movable to disengage from and unlock the shackle,wherein the locking mechanism also includes a cam defined to be movablein a first direction to engage with the latch plate such that movementof the cam in a second direction causes movement of the latch plate inthe second direction, and wherein the locking mechanism also includes amotor mechanically connected to control movement of the cam in the firstdirection to engage with the latch plate, wherein the motor iselectrically connected to be controlled by the processor.
 6. A lockingdevice as recited in claim 5, wherein the shackle can only be unlockedthrough operation of the processor to control the motor to move the camto engage the latch plate.
 7. A locking device as recited in claim 5,further comprising: lock sensors defined to determine a position of thecam relative to the latch plate and electrically communicate thedetermined position of the cam to the processor.
 8. A locking device asrecited in claim 1, further comprising: a memory disposed in electricalcommunication with the processor for recording data, the data includingprogram instructions for operating the wireless tracking andcommunication system, the data also including settings associated withoperation of the locking device, the data also including a recording ofa time-dependent status of the locking device; a user interface displaydisposed in electrical communication with the processor and defined tovisually render data recorded in the memory; and a user interfacecontrol device disposed in electrical communication with the processorand defined to control which data is rendered in the user interfacedisplay.
 9. A locking device as recited in claim 8, wherein the userinterface display is a liquid crystal display, and wherein the userinterface control device is a mechanical button.
 10. A method foroperating a locking device based on a status of the locking device,comprising: operating a computing system onboard the locking device todetermine a real-time status of the locking device; and based on thedetermined real-time status of the locking device, operating thecomputing system to control a locking mechanism of the locking device toeither lock or unlock the locking device, wherein the computing systemand the locking mechanism are disposed within a same outer enclosure ofthe locking device.
 11. A method for operating a locking device based ona status of the locking device as recited in claim 10, wherein thereal-time status of the locking device includes one or more of apresence of any pending command to be executed by the computing system,a presence of a user interaction with a control of the locking device, apresence of a scheduled task to be performed by the computing system, acurrent state of a power supply of the locking device, and a currentenvironment state of the locking device.
 12. A method for operating alocking device based on a status of the locking device as recited inclaim 11, wherein the current environment state of the locking deviceincludes one or more of a current state of motion of the locking device,a current terrestrial position of the locking device, a currentproximity of the locking device to a wireless communication network towhich the computing system can wirelessly communicate, a temperaturenear the locking device, a humidity near the locking device, aradioactivity level near the locking device, a chemical presence nearthe locking device, and an external movement near the locking device.13. A method for operating a locking device based on a status of thelocking device as recited in claim 10, wherein operating the computingsystem onboard the locking device to determine the real-time status ofthe locking device includes operating a wireless tracking system withinthe computing system onboard the locking device to determine aterrestrial position of the locking device.
 14. A method for operating alocking device based on a status of the locking device as recited inclaim 10, wherein operating the computing system onboard the lockingdevice to determine the real-time status of the locking device includesoperating a wireless communication system within the computing systemonboard the locking device to access a wireless network and receivecommands from one or more sources over the wireless network.
 15. Amethod for operating a locking device based on a status of the lockingdevice as recited in claim 14, wherein the received commands update thereal-time status of the locking device to direct the computing systemonboard the locking device to either lock or unlock the locking device.16. A method for operating a locking device based on a status of thelocking device as recited in claim 10, wherein operating the computingsystem onboard the locking device to automatically determine thereal-time status of the locking device includes operating the computingsystem to acquire data from one or more sensors near the locking device.17. A method for operating a locking device based on a status of thelocking device as recited in claim 10, further comprising: operating thecomputing system onboard the locking device to record data in a memoryonboard the locking device, wherein the data includes information aboutthe determined real-time status of the locking device.
 18. A method foroperating a locking device based on a status of the locking device asrecited in claim 17, wherein the data includes time-stamped informationabout one or more of a terrestrial position of the locking device, asecurity event associated with the locking device, a shackle state ofthe locking device, a network communication received or transmitted bythe computing system onboard the locking device, a physical movement ofthe locking device, and an environmental condition to which the lockingdevice is exposed.
 19. A method for operating a locking device based ona status of the locking device as recited in claim 17, furthercomprising: operating a wireless communication system within thecomputing system onboard the locking device to transmit data recorded inthe memory onboard the locking device to a receiver within a wirelessnetwork within range of the locking device.
 20. A method for operating alocking device based on a status of the locking device as recited inclaim 10, wherein the locking mechanism includes a latch plate definedto be movable to engage with and lock the shackle, and defined to bemovable to disengage from and unlock the shackle, wherein the lockingmechanism also includes a cam defined to be movable in a first directionto engage with the latch plate such that movement of the cam in a seconddirection causes movement of the latch plate in the second direction,and wherein the locking mechanism also includes a motor mechanicallyconnected to control movement of the cam in the first direction toengage with the latch plate, wherein the motor is electrically connectedto be controlled by the processor.
 21. A method for operating a lockingdevice based on a status of the locking device as recited in claim 20,further comprising: operating lock sensors defined to determine aposition of the cam relative to the latch plate and electricallycommunicate the determined position of the cam to the computing system.